PUNTA GORDA, Fla.–The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) is experiencing an officer shortage which has led a legislative panel to consider a plan that would activate the Florida National Guard to help at prisons.
A report issued by the Joint Legislative Budget Commission proposes that $31.25 million would be used to cover the costs of activating National Guard members to help alleviate the officer staffing shortage that has resulted in extensive correctional officer overtime.
“In an effort to reduce overtime and provide relief to existing correctional officers, the Florida National Guard members will be activated to assist the FDC at facilities for nine months or until the FDC determines it no longer needs National Guard Assistance,” the report stated….